3. Too much underrated talent
It’s really easy to look at the composition of the Lakers’ roster and laugh. There are plenty of awkward pieces in that puzzle, and more underrated talent than you’ll usually find on an individual NBA team. Being overlooked and underestimated seems to be playing into Los Angeles’ favor, though.
When the 2018-19 season rolls around, teams will quickly realize that this Lakers squad is no pushover. Sure, it may include the “Meme Team” and a handful of young, budding stars with limited big-game experience, but there’s no argument against the fact that it possesses talent by the boatload.
Let’s imagine a starting lineup that looks like this:
- Point guard: Lonzo Ball
- Shooting guard: Josh Hart
- Small forward: Brandon Ingram
- Power Forward: Kyle Kuzma
- Center: LeBron James
Now this small-ball approach couldn’t be relied upon for 48 minutes every night, but it sounds scary if deployed correctly. That would leave the Lakers with options like Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Rajon Rondo, JaVale McGee, Moritz Wagner and Michael Beasley coming off the bench to take advantage of their own unique skill-sets.
It may not sound like the most intimidating package in the world, but it won’t be as laughable as folks seem to be convinced of. Heck, that starting lineup all on its own should strike fear, especially if the four youngsters all continue improving at their current paces. Playing alongside LeBron will only help that in regard.
It’s become too common for skeptics to look at this Lakers roster and assume it’ll stink because there’s only one proven superstar. While that may be the case, it’s asinine to suggest this team is worth writing off before the season has even begun.